Josiah led a spiritual revival among his people after discovering the book of the law. Lehi, who lived during Josiah's reign, prioritized carrying the written word of God to his new home. As a result, generations of his descendants were blessed and spiritually strengthened.
My Name Shall Be There
God told Solomon that His name would be in the temple forever. He also warned that if Israel turned away from Him, the temple would be destroyed. How can both be true? The story of King Benjamin clarifies that those who worship in the temple can receive God's name in their hearts forever.
Will God Indeed Dwell on the Earth?
Solomon asked the searching question at the dedication of the temple, "Will God indeed dwell on earth?" The Book of Mormon provides a definitive answer when the resurrected Savior Jesus Christ visits a group of believers gathered at the temple in the land of Bountiful.
Bread Only
Moses explained that manna taught an important principle: We need more than physical food. Our spirits also need the word of God. Book of Mormon prophets taught the same principle, inviting us to "feast" on the word of God, by hearing, pondering, and acting.
The Shema in the Book of Mormon
The Shema — the central prayer of Judaism, from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 — is never quoted in the Book of Mormon, but its influence is pervasive. Echoes of the Shema appear as Nephite prophets teach their children, cultivate a holistic religious practice, and urge people to let God's word sink deep into their hearts.
“Teach These Things Freely Unto Your Children”
Enoch knew Adam because Adam was still alive during much of his ministry. But Enoch also recognized the value of the spiritual record Adam had kept, which he called "a book of remembrance." This written record was one way Adam fulfilled God's commandment: "Teach these things freely unto your children."
Contents of the Brass Plates
Eight of the 39 books in the Old Testament were definitely in the brass plates, and another 16 may have been included. For Book of Mormon prophets, the brass plates were an essential part of their identity: connecting them to intergenerational covenants, testifying of the Savior, and bringing them closer to God.
Recorded on Earth and in Heaven
The records we keep may be longer-lasting than we realize. Joseph Smith taught that some of "the books" by which we will be judged are the records we keep on the earth. Wilford Woodruff urged us to write our important experiences, promising that what we record on earth will be recorded in heaven.
A Proclamation
Anyone can declare something, but only a person with authority can proclaim it. Ancient prophets proclaimed truths to kings by divine authority. Modern prophets have also issued six declarations with specific messages and warnings for church members, world leaders, and all people.
My Education Plan
Solomon urged us, "With all thy getting, get understanding." Nephi praised his parents for teaching him "in all [their] learning." And in modern revelation, the Lord instructed us to "seek learning, even by study and also by faith." This counsel applies to us at every stage of life. We need to organize our ongoing education.